"Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches.  Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit.  For apart from me you can do nothing."  (John 15:5  NLT)

Crazy schedules that are changing - new month and the start of a new season (kind of) being just a few of the changes happening.  Of course there is also the "regular" things we try to keep up with while trying to work the "new" things in.  All of which makes getting things finished more interesting.  Then we try to add in time with God.  I don't know about you but I have time with God every morning, before my feet hit the floor, and every night before I turn out the light.  Scripture readings, prayer time and time to "listen" is enough - right?

The Scripture this morning is calling us to more.  It is calling us to make sure we are spending time working with, listening to and "remaining" in the vine. Time studying, and IN God's Word -- strengthening our relationship with God.  I recently saw this compared to a buffet - something we all encounter on a regular basis.  I hadn't thought of it until I saw this.....  The meat is usually at the "end."  Or, like on a recent trip, there was a LOT more potatoes, veggies and salads to choose from than "meat" -- so we fill our plates with other things THEN get the meat.

How often are we doing that with God?  How often are we filling our days with activities - especially the ones God has called us to - with our taking time to STOP and be with God?  How often are we doing all of these things without putting God FIRST?  Are we REALLY "remaining in the vine"?  Something to think about.........